County residents give initial opinions about tax increases

Lubbock County residents on Thursday had the first of two chances to sound off about proposed tax rate increases for the hospital district and county.

Five residents spoke to commissioners about the hospital tax rate and six voiced their opinion on the county tax rate.

Under the proposed tax increase, the average homeowner would pay about $326 in county taxes, up approximately $31 over last year. The hospital district would collect about $121 in taxes, an increase of about $8.

If commissioners propose raising the rate above the effective tax rate, they must first hold two public hearings.

"It's the opportunity for any individual to express concerns concerning the tax rate, either for or against," said Commissioner Patti Jones.

Residents will have another chance to address the court at Monday's regularly scheduled meeting.

Also, Justice of the Peace Jim Hansen will speak today to a grievance committee comprised of former grand jurors, asking for a raise.

The committee will deliberate and make a recommendation to commissioners. If the committee's decision is unanimous, commissioners have no choice but to accept it. If the decision is split, commissioners can choose to grant the salary increase or keep it the same.

Commissioners voted last week to keep the salaries of elected officials the same, except for the county judge and auditor, whose salary is statutorily tied to the judge's.

Commissioners agreed the auditor deserved a raise and County Judge Tom Head said he would decline a raise or give it back to the county.